PPS 10: TelecommunicationsPolicy TEL 1: Satellite Television Antennas

6.37 The Planning (General Development)
Order (NI) 1993 includes a range of permitted development rights for the installation of satellite
television antennas. In cases however where planning permission is required, the Department, having
regard to technical and safety requirements, will seek to ensure that a satellite dish is sited in the
least obtrusive position and respects any architectural features and appearance of the building or structure.
Where appropriate equipment will be required to be coloured or painted to help it blend in with its
background. The installation of dishes in close proximity to the doors or windows of neighbouring houses
is likely to lead to complaints and will generally be unacceptable. The Department would encourage the
installation of shared systems for apartments and flats as this can help avoid the impact of an otherwise
likely proliferation of dishes on walls and roofs. Further details on the permitted development rights
for the installation of satellite television antennas on dwelling houses can be found in the Department’s
guide for householders ‘Your Home and Planning Permission’ and Information
Leaflet 13.